Activity

Thank you Todd! It is so frustrating to be denied treatment that you rightfully deserve. After going through years of extensive medical treatment, much of it on my deathbed fighting cancer and unexpected to survive, I know what it feels like to go through extensive trauma and then just be thrown back into the world without and transition or assistance in dealing with what you have been through. Some of the things that I have found to help were
1. Consistently talking with family, friends, groups and professionals about my experience and feeling that I am not alone. The worst thing someone with PTSD can do is isolate themselves and try to deal with it on their own. This will just intensify the anxiety.
2. I received great value by seeing one of the best hypnotherapists in the world, David Spiegal at Stanford who taught me tools to control the anxiety and avoid negative and catastrophic thinking. With biofeedback, you can literally learn to control your heart rate, breathing and blood pressure reducing the physical effects of anxiety.
3. Mindfullness is a trendy word these days, but learning to meditate and control your anxiety and visions of trauma are crucial to moving on with life.
4. Yoga and physical fitness is also a very important aspect of recovery form PTSD. Exercise help your body produce anti anxiety compounds, aids in getting a better sleep, and reduces the effects of stress
5. Sleep is crucial – if you are not sleeping well your body and mind break down, and the anxiety can get much worse. Melatonin which is natural and over the counter is recommended by many doctors as a sleep aid that can be taken every day 30 minutes before bed and helps you get a good night sleep.
Hydrate and eat healthy – When a body is dehydrated, the heart rate increases which exacerbates the feeling of panic and anxiety. Start drinking lots of water first thing in the morning and remain hydrated throughout the day to avoid tachycardia and the resulting anxiety it can cause.

Please encourage everyone you know who has PTSD to join this community and share what they are doing to heal themselves and others!